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Tuesday, November 10, 2015

WHN has been asked to pawticipate in a paid sponsorship posting program, and has been given a 25.00 Amazon giftcard to give away to one of our faithful readers!!!! This giveaway is being sponsored by www.DogFenceDIY.com!!!!To win the gift card, please comment below NLT 29 November, and share the column via social media. We also encourage all of our followers to post comments at our sponsor's website so that they know that you have read the article!. The winner will be chosen by Sweetie, the newest member of our pack on 30 November and announced on 1 Deember!Now, here is the article:

Top Turkey Day Safety Tips for Dogs

As a pet parent, you keep your dog’s
healthy and happiness at the forefront of your mind all year round.
You do whatever you can to keep them safe, and you show them your
affection in many different ways. Whether it’s installing
a DIY electric dog fence, keeping a never-ending
supply of tennis balls, or patiently clipping their nails, you pour
your heart into your dog’s care. During the holidays, our focus is
turned elsewhere for longer than usual. As an important reminder,
here are some ways to keep your dog safe and happy during your
Thanksgiving celebrations.

Prevent Your Dog from Accessing the
Kitchen

The most dangerous place for your dog
to be during Thanksgiving is in the kitchen. If your dog gets in your
way, they could accidentally cause you to trip. Hot liquids, fryers,
stoves, hot pans, knives, etc. can all cause injuries to you or your
dog. The best thing to do is to keep your dog in a closed room while
you’re cooking. A pet barrier in the kitchen doorway can prevent
your dog from coming in unexpectedly. A baby gate would work, and a
wireless dog fence barrier is another option that
won’t block your path, too. An electric
dog fence
can be used in the home to keep your dog contained
anywhere that’s most convenient.

Watch Out for Environmental Dangers

Holiday decorations are festive and
fun, but keep your dog’s safety in mind when you’re placing them.
Pumpkins and corn, for example, are appropriate for the season, but
they also smell delicious to dogs. While they’re non-toxic, they
can cause your dog to choke, or they can cause an intestinal
blockage. Lit candles are another hazard, so make sure they’re not
in a place that your dog could knock them over. Cover or conceal
electrical wires for light up decorations.

Be Cautious When Traveling with Your
Dog

Did you know that your dog should wear
a seatbelt in the car, too? Dog safety harnesses will help protect
your dog in a collision, and they also stop your dog from getting in
the front seat and distracting the driver. While traveling, you
should also bring along a pet
barrier or invisible
dog fence to help contain your dog in someone else’s
home or yard. If your relative’s home isn’t dog-proof, carefully
check for dangers, such as cleaning chemicals or medications within
reach of your dog. Always keep the phone number to your vet’s
office with you while traveling.

Observe Your Dog for Signs of Stress

When there is a lot of extra activity
going on, dogs tend to get stressed out. Always watch your dog for
signs that they are upset, and take them to a safe area away from the
commotion if necessary. Signs of stress that you should look for in
your dog include panting, growling, shivering, hiding, raised fur,
pacing, jumping, staring, or cowering. Sometimes your dog will need a
break from the action, so take them to a quiet area with toys, food,
and plenty of water.

Know the Dangers of Thanksgiving
Dinner

Thanksgiving dinner may be the most
delicious meal of the year, but it can also be the most dangerous to
dogs. Don’t feed your dog any food they aren’t accustomed to
eating, and do not overfeed them. Watch carefully for signs of
sickness. Be especially careful of foods that can cause choking, such
as nuts, raisins, grapes, and bones. Turkey bones are very dangerous,
and they can rip your dog’s intestinal tract or puncture their
throat. Fatty foods, especially turkey skin, can make your dog very
sick. Chocolate and the sugar substitute xylitol are toxic to dogs.
When you’re done eating, make sure all trash is taken outside,
especially the remains of the turkey.

Talk to Your Relatives About Dog
Safety

Make sure your family and your guests
know basic dog safety, too, so they can help you monitor your dog.
Share with them dog stress signals, and instruct them not to feed
your dog any scraps from their plates. Tell young children that dogs
do not like hugs or kisses. Ask your guests to tell you if they
notice your dog acting strangely. If you’re visiting relatives,
find out ahead of time if they have a room your dog can use as a
quiet place, and inquire about their yard, such as whether it has an
electronic dog fence, a traditional fence, or no
fence. There is nothing more frustrating than having to deal with a
lost dog when you are not in your own town.

As long as you keep these basic safety
tips in mind, you and your dog will enjoy the holiday.
Most of this is common sense, but it’s always easy to forget little
things when there’s so much going on and so much on your mind.
Enjoy your time spent with loved ones, and make sure you give your
dog a little extra love and attention, too. Happy Thanksgiving!